Former Chancellor Gerhard Schröder Faces Criticism Over Putin’s Birthday Celebration

Controversy Surrounding the Birthday Visit

Former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder’s recent appearance at President Vladimir Putin’s birthday celebration has sparked significant backlash in Germany. Schröder’s long-standing ties with Russia have become increasingly contentious, particularly in light of Russia’s ongoing military actions in Ukraine, which have drawn international condemnation.

Political Reactions

Franziska Brantner, co-leader of the Green Party, has publicly criticized Schröder, suggesting that it is time for the Social Democrats (SPD)—Schröder’s party—to reconsider his membership status. She expressed her disapproval, stating, “Russia is now even attacking us in Germany with hybrid attacks. Schröder hasn’t learned anything from this. A new approach needs to be put on the table.” Brantner argued that celebrating Putin while civilians in Ukraine suffer as a result of Russian aggression is “politically unacceptable.”

Brantner further asserted that any action short of expelling Schröder from the SPD would send a “disastrous signal” to both Ukraine and the German populace regarding their safety and national security.

Further Criticism from Within the SPD

Another prominent figure from the SPD, Hubertus Heil, expressed his outrage over the situation. Having served as Germany’s labor minister from 2018 to 2025, Heil remarked, “The warm embrace between Schröder and Putin in Moscow deeply outrages and disturbs me.” He condemned the decision to celebrate with a leader described as a “dictator,” stating that the “murderous imperialism” perpetrated by Putin causes “horrific suffering every day,” making such a celebration “unjustifiable under any circumstances.”

Context of the Celebration

Putin marked his 74th birthday in Moscow, where it was reported that he had invited Schröder to join the festivities upon learning of his presence in the city. According to the Kremlin, the meeting was portrayed as a friendly gathering, with photographs released showing the two leaders smiling and shaking hands.

Schröder’s Russia Connections

Schröder’s business affiliations and personal connections to Russia have been under scrutiny since the onset of Russia’s comprehensive attack on Ukraine in 2022. Despite scrutiny and calls from within his party for his expulsion, Schröder has managed to maintain his membership in the SPD. His taxpayer-funded office in Berlin was closed in light of his involvement in the Russian energy sector, but he has continuously confronted pressure to sever his ties.